This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Wilson, Hartman(n), Mendenhall, Bartlett, Sumner, Caldwell, Gregory Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/ok.2ADE/1940 Message Board Post: Since I’ve started helping people with the Freedom of Information Act info in early November, I have been virtually swamped with requests. I’ve had over 1,100 requests for it, just about 200 really, really nice responsive letters and emails in response (which is a nice surprise, most people just get the info and move on), about 350 requests for additional help via email and snail mail and another 87+ who let me know they’ve found the info they’ve been looking for with the additional help. Also, a total of 9 people sent me vile, nasty, swearing emails about how I shouldn’t be helping people like this on rootsweb. But they’re obviously a sorry lot so I don’t pay them any mind. *** So, I’m happy to report that for the $7.00 for paper, copying, staples, large envelope and postage costs, it’s well worth it! The Freedom of Information Act is a tool that is available to everyone. The request is free but it can be very confusing. You have to know where to send it, you have to have the right request form, a properly worded letter, you have to know what type of information they need to get you what you are looking for. You cannot just send in a generic "find this" request. I found a way to use FOIA in genealogy to request records that actually moves your search along. In my every day legal work I use the FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) to acquire records from all areas. I will send you the forms (both State and Federal), sample request letters, what you need to send in terms of specifics, if you have them, or if not, some suggestions on where and how to find them. I have compiled a list of each State’s statutes and codes that you will need to reformat the request form for your particular State or the State you are sending the request to. I have included some specific searching directions and examples that may help you. For those of us who have been unable to get to an out-of-town location or to afford a researcher it's great. My email contact is or genealogyprincess@hotmail.com not the email listed on this posting. Or simply follow the directions below! I will be happy to help anyone with any additional information or reformatting the forms for other states, other data requests, etc. Any other requests for help, I will send a form. I have to request $6.58 for paper, copying, staples, large envelope and postage costs. This package of information is 26+ pages (and growing) -- and I had no idea this would be responded to in such huge numbers (!!). So, if you*re interested, send $7.00 in cash or check [Kathy Lawler] to Genealogy Princess, 20757 Camden Square, #210, Lathrup Village, MI 48076 or use my Paypal address [checking] for $7.00 to kathlee13@yahoo.com or genealogyprincess@hotmail.com. Either way, don’t forget your address!! I will send you the information the very day I receive your address and funds. Lastly, additional information, new ways I can come up with to use FOIA will be sent to you free of charge and I*ll also be happy to answer any questions you may have. Lastly, I have a larger bunch of information in my "FOIA IN GENEALOGY WORKS! on Ebay. Check that out! Thanks! Kathleen Lawler